Flow conditioner VK

Product Overview
The retention conditioner VK is a conditioning unit for feed mixtures or individual components that enables the controlled addition of steam and small quantities of liquids (e.g. oil). It provides a defined retention time upstream of an extrusion process to achieve target nutritional and physical properties and to prepare the product for extrusion.

Details
The VK conditioner is designed for effective mixing and heat treatment of feed and other process materials. Steam and small liquid quantities are introduced with a defined ratio of retention time to throughput. A precisely controlled filling degree improves adsorption and absorption of additives. Key operating parameters such as temperature and moisture are maintained to ensure consistent product treatment. The continuously and electrically adjustable weir allows high filling levels and extended retention times for components requiring longer heat treatment. Steam absorption is enhanced by product piling. Shaft, casing and mixing tools are made of stainless steel; food-grade materials are available as an option for all product-contacting areas.

Applications and Advantages

• Selectable useful volume (2 sizes) for optimized throughput
• All product-contacting components in stainless steel (optional food-grade materials)
• Electrically adjustable weir for continuous control of filling level and retention time
• Adjustable mixing tools to set retention time and mixing intensity
• Surface temperature sensor for product temperature monitoring
• Large inspection openings to facilitate cleaning and maintenance
• Drive via slip-on geared motor
• Suitable for meal feed and for conditioning upstream of extrusion processes
• Design minimises dead spaces to maintain hygiene

Technical specifications

• Model type: VK (retention conditioner)
• Conditioning media: steam and small liquid quantities (e.g. oil)
• Defined retention time upstream of extrusion
• Continuously and electrically adjustable weir for filling level and retention time control
• Selectable useful volume (2 sizes)
• Stainless steel shaft, casing and mixing tools; optional food-grade materials for product-contacting areas
• Adjustable mixing tools to influence retention time and mixing effect
• Surface temperature sensor for product temperature measurement
• Large inspection openings for easy cleaning and maintenance
• Drive: slip-on geared motor
• Design minimises dead spaces to ensure high hygiene standards